The tooth and surrounding tissues may be tender for several days as a result of manipulation during treatment, and due to the previous condition of your tooth. This is a perfectly normal and expected reaction. For a few days you may experience mild to moderate discomfort when eating. Avoid chewing on the tooth as much as possible.
If a temporary filling was placed to seal the tooth, avoid flossing in the area. It is not uncommon for a small portion of the filling to wear down or chip. If the entire filling breaks or falls out, please contact the office to have it replaced.
To control discomfort, take pain medications such as Advil, Motrin, or Tylenol as directed. Warm salt water rinses (one teaspoon of salt in one cup of warm water) may aid in relieving discomfort.
If swelling occurs, place an ice pack on the affected area. If antibiotics are prescribed, continue to take them for the indicated length of time, even if signs and symptoms of infection and swelling are gone.
A permanent restoration, either a filling or crown must be placed to protect the root canal tooth from fracture or decay. Please be sure to keep all scheduled follow-up appointments for these procedures.
If you experience uncontrollable pain or swelling, or if your bite feels uneven, please contact the office.
